Chicken tacos

Chicken tacos

Dinner

Item Rating: 71/100

1 serving (150 grams) contains 250 calories, 20.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 20.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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394.3
calories
31.5
protein
31.5
carbohydrates
15.8
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.6g)
Calories
394.3
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 15.8 g 20%
Saturated Fat 4.7 g 23%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 78.9 mg 26%
Sodium 788.6 mg 34%
Total Carbohydrates 31.5 g 11%
Dietary Fiber 4.7 g 16%
Sugars 3.2 g
protein 31.5 g 63%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 157.7 mg 12%
Iron 2.4 mg 13%
Potassium 473.2 mg 10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

32.0%
32.0%
36.1%
Fat: 142 cal (36.1%)
Protein: 126 cal (32.0%)
Carbs: 126 cal (32.0%)

About Chicken tacos

Chicken tacos originate from Mexican cuisine, combining seasoned, grilled chicken wrapped in soft or crispy tortilla shells, often garnished with fresh vegetables, salsa, cheese, and avocado. They are a versatile dish enjoyed worldwide. Nutritionally, chicken tacos are a good source of protein due to the chicken, while accompaniments like vegetables add vitamins and fiber. One medium taco with chicken, vegetables, and a standard tortilla can provide around 200-300 calories, 15-20 grams of protein, and a moderate amount of fats and carbohydrates. Depending on the preparation, they can be tailored for various dietary preferences, making them a balanced and customizable meal option.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in lean protein from chicken, which aids in muscle repair and growth (around 21 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving of cooked chicken).
  • Vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes provide vitamin C, supporting a healthy immune system and skin health.
  • Tortillas made from whole grains contribute dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in sustained energy release.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (if made with wheat tortillas), dairy (if containing cheese or sour cream), corn (if using corn tortillas)
Suitable for: High-protein diets, balanced diets, gluten-free (if using gluten-free tortillas)
Not suitable for: Vegetarian diets (unless chicken is substituted), vegan diets, low-protein diets

Selection and Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before use. Keep tortillas in a sealed bag to maintain freshness.

Common Questions About Chicken tacos Nutrition

How much protein and calories are in chicken tacos?

On average, a single chicken taco contains around 12-15 grams of protein and 180-250 calories, depending on the toppings and tortilla type. If additional ingredients like cheese or sour cream are added, the calorie count will increase.

Are chicken tacos suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?

Chicken tacos can be keto-friendly if the tortilla is swapped for a low-carb alternative, such as a lettuce wrap or almond flour tortilla. You should also avoid high-carb toppings like beans or sugary sauces to keep the dish within keto standards.

What are the health benefits of eating chicken tacos?

Chicken tacos provide a healthy source of high-quality protein, which supports muscle maintenance and growth. You can also pack them with nutritious vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, adding vitamins and fiber. However, be cautious of high-fat toppings like cheese or sour cream if you're managing cholesterol levels.

What is the recommended portion size for chicken tacos?

A typical portion size is 2-3 tacos per meal, depending on your caloric needs and hunger level. Aim for balanced ingredients by using 3-4 ounces of grilled chicken per taco and including a variety of vegetables to keep it nutrient-dense.

How do chicken tacos compare to beef tacos nutritionally?

Chicken tacos are generally lower in fat and calories compared to beef tacos, making them a leaner option. For example, grilled chicken breast contains about 3 grams of fat per 3 ounces, while ground beef (80% lean) contains around 15 grams of fat for the same serving size.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

  1. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025: Protein Foods
    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
    Explains the role of chicken as a lean protein and its health benefits within balanced diets like chicken tacos.
  2. Chicken, a protein powerhouse: Nutritional benefits and dietary significance
    Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
    Discusses chicken's protein content, its role in building muscles, and other health benefits applicable to chicken tacos.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.